Now I’m on a security posts streak. Last time, I wrote about how to keep your pockets from getting picked. Here’s one on keeping your car from getting jacked.

Losing a wallet is one thing, but something of much larger value (unless you keep thousands of dollars in your wallet) such as a car could be more frustrating. Just don’t give me the “I got insurance” excuse. Claims can be mucky, you know. So here are some car security tips.

• Remove the keys from the ignition

  Keep your keys with you at all times. Even kids can start a car when the keys are in the ignition. Good thing new cars today prevent you from locking your car with the keys still in the ignition.

• Lock the doors

  Always lock you car doors when parked or when traveling. They’re the initial layer of security that your car has. So at least put in something for car thieves to tinker with rather than letting them have free access all the way through.

• Make sure the windows are rolled up flush shut

  A car thief has a lot of tools in his arsenal that an inch of opening in your window is an opportunity for them to pop your lock.

• Install a car alarm

  However, just don’t let your locked doors and rolled up windows your last line of defense. Installing a car alarm can do you a lot of good. These can really startle thieves. Most car alarms even disable ignition when not deactivated by the remote. So where can a car that can’t run go? Nowhere.

• Use a steering and pedal locks

  These can be a bit more crude than your advanced biometric systems but nothing beats cold hard metal locks to keep bad boys from jacking your car quick. Steering locks, well, prevent the steering wheel from turning. Pedal locks usually keeps the brake pedal from being pushed down. Some club-type models can secure both wheel and pedal.

• Avoid parking in secluded places

  You don’t want to leave your car where no one can hear the alarm go off. Or hear you scream when some meanies try to jack it when you’re about to enter the car.

• Conceal valuables
  Thieves may not be interested in your whole car but they can sure get interested in your bag or wallet inside. So be sure to keep them square away. A good trick can be hiding them under car seats or under car mats. Just keep them from plain sight.

If you happen to get jacked by someone who’s sticking a gun to your face, remember that your windows aren’t bullet proof. Give it up. Your car isn’t worth your life. And here’s where the “I got insurance” excuse comes in real handy.